OTTAWA - Health Canada is warning consumers, especially expectant mothers, not to use two vitamin C products sold under the brand names New Roots Herbal Vitamin C8 and Vitazan Professional Vitamin C Advanced Ascorbate.
It says the products were improperly made using vitamin A instead of vitamin C, exposing consumers to potential risks of adverse events.
Health Canada says the capsules may also contain excessively high doses of vitamin A.
The maximum recommended daily dosage for vitamin A without a prescription is 10,000 International Units, and consumers taking two capsules of the affected products daily may exceed this amount and could be at risk of serious health effects.
Symptoms of vitamin A overdose include headaches, fatigue, appetite loss, nausea and diarrhea.
Women in the early months of pregnancy who take excessive amounts of vitamin A risk serious birth defects in their unborn children.
Canadian manufacturer New Roots Herbal has begun a Canada-wide recall of the two affected lots, shown on the label as LOT 2689 (exp. 08/2012) and LOT 9719 (exp. 0 1/2012). The vitamins are sold in bottles of 90 or 180 capsules.
Consumers who have the affected products should immediately discontinue use and consult their health provider if they have concerns. The products should be returned to point of purchase or the manufacturer for safe disposal.
No adverse reactions related to these products have been reported in Canada.
Consumers requiring more information can contact Health Canada's public inquiries line at (613) 957-2991, or toll-free at 1-866-225-0709.
